What’s better than enjoying wine while experiencing a great destination? Easy – doing it with your friends! But, deciding on where to go can be challenging. Whether you are a few couples who occasionally get together or a formal organization with scheduled meetings, here are four suggestions that work well for small to medium sized groups.
1) The blending of medieval Europe exploration with the history of European wine making on a river cruise is a can’t miss for wine groups. Biking through French vineyards, “truffle hunting”, attending a performance of “The Blue Danube” in Vienna are a fraction of potential experiences. Some wine cruises are itinerary specific such as cruising thru Burgundy or exploring the Bordeaux river valley region. Alternatively, traditional itineraries with added wine and culinary focus, including guest experts, are also available.
River cruises are great for groups because there are so many inclusives that everyone can just sit back, relax, and enjoy the wine. Or hike, bike, explore, and enjoy the wine. Or some combination and enjoy the wine!
2) Mendoza is arguably the most well-known wine region of Argentina, world famous for it’s Malbec. Additionally, the region’s Viognier, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah are well-regarded. But, Argentina is home to two other major wine regions: Patagonia - known for Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Merlot and Malbec and the high altitude North Region – where Torrontes and Syrah are the main varietals.
While you’re in the area, your wine group might like to experience Iguazu Falls, learn Tango in Buenos Aires, enjoy spectacular views of Patagonia, walk along the Perro Moreno Glacier, or learn about traditional gaucho life while staying on a working Estancia.
3) Australia is home to as many different wine regions as California. Which makes sense - they both enjoy wildly diverse climates. Multiple high-quality wines are awaiting your discovery in the Barossa Valley, Coonawarra region, or Adelaide Hills, to name a few. Wine lovers will find almost any varietal produced on this small continent.
What to do when you’re not wine tasting? Explore the outback and a night at Ayers Rock for the Sounds of Silence. Climb the Sydney Harbor Bridge (I won’t be joining you!), enjoy a wilderness walk on Kangaroo Island to meet koalas, kangaroos, and wallabies. Mine for opals in Coober Pedy. Snorkel or dive the Great Barrier Reef, or just enjoy a beach day or two in Cairns (while sipping wine!).
4) Did you know South Africa is the seventh largest wine producer, ahead of more established wine countries such as Portugal, New Zealand, and Chile. They have their own, unique varietal - Pinotage, a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsaut. Better known varietals that South Africa produces include Shiraz, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc.
Of course, if you’re in South Africa for wine tasting, why not enjoy a glass of champagne while hot air balloon riding across the vineyards or the plains of Africa? Kruger National Park is a great destination for a safari. A side trip to Victoria Falls is easily accomplished from Johannesburg, if that’s on your bucket list.
So, there you have it – a very brief sampling of outstanding destinations for your wine group’s next sampling!
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